Our home game this week versus Cornell, (Saturday, April 5, at 12:00 noon, on Jordan Field), highlights the efforts of the Mass General Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivorship program. In August of 2022, two days before beginning my sophomore year of college, I was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive variant of papillary thyroid cancer. While dealing with the impacts of two major surgeries, radioactive iodine treatment, and daily synthetic thyroid medicine, I am beyond grateful for an unbelievable medical team at MGH and supportive family, friends, teammates and coaches at Harvard and beyond. Over the past two years, the MGH AYA program has been an important partner in my ongoing cancer treatment and has been vital in providing me with important resources and guidance, allowing me to focus on working hard in the classroom and on the field. Between pediatrics and adult cancer care, the people in this program understand the unique challenges we face in this age group. Whether it is learning to advocate for and manage our own healthcare, support our mental health, or connect us with other young adults in a similar position, I am so grateful for Dr. Annah Abrams and the team running this group. As research advances and helps cancer patients have a better quality of life, support services to navigate the inherent challenges are still so important. I’d also like to extend a very special thank you to the Harvard Women’s Lacrosse and greater lacrosse community for your continued support and strength!
– Grace Taylor
